Auxiliary cooling fan for a blending system

ABSTRACT

A blender system includes a blender base that is selectively and operably engaged with a container. The blender base may include a housing that houses a motor operatively driving a mixing blade, and a fan. The fan may operate independent of the motor. The fan may force air through the blender base to cool the motor and other operative components of the blender base.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 62/321,925 entitled “AUXILIARY COOLING FAN FOR A BLENDING SYSTEM,”filed on Apr. 13, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present teachings relate to a cooling system for a blender, and moreparticularly, to an auxiliary cooling fan for a blender system utilizinga fan that is controlled independent of a blade assembly.

BACKGROUND

Blender systems are often used to blend and process foodstuffs.Conventional blenders generally include a blender base with a motor, amixing container with an operable mixing blade disposed therein.Blenders often include a fan that is driven by a motor. The motoradditionally drives a blade disposed within a container. An example ofsuch a system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,273,358 A.

These blender systems are often used to blend and process foodstuffs.Frozen, frosty, or icy drinks have become increasingly popular. Suchdrinks include the traditional shakes, and the more recently popularsmoothies. Shakes, or milk shakes, are typically formed of ice-creamand/or milk, and flavored as desired, with or without additives, such ascandies, chocolates, peanut butter, fruits, etc. Milkshakes typicallyare available at most fast-food restaurants, such as burger chains, andmay be made by special machines, or hand-made using mixers.

Smoothies tend to be healthier, and are formed of ice, frozen yogurt,and/or sorbet, and also may include additives such as fruits, fruitjuice, vitamins, supplements, etc. Smoothies typically are availablefrom specialty chains or juice bars, and may be made with commercial orrestaurant-grade blender. Such drinks also may be made at home, using astandard personal blender. One disadvantage with making such drinks, orutilizing blenders, is the difficulty in operating the blender due tothe specific ingredients required in some recipes. Blenders may getclogged or otherwise stalled by the drink ingredients. One possiblecause of stalling is overheating of the motor or other portions of theblender. For instance, some blenders have a thermal shut-off that turnsoff a motor and blending mechanism when there is temperature build up inthe blander base. This prevents damage to the blender. A user cannot usethe blender again until the temperature decreases.

In an example, a blender may have different settings for differentprograms. A milkshake setting may be slower than a soup setting or thelike. Thus, when a slower setting is chosen, the motor operates the fanand the blade assembly at the slower speed. The slower speed may meanthat less cooling air is drawn through the blender.

Therefore, a need exists for improved blender systems, improved coolingof blender systems, and the like.

SUMMARY

A blender system may include a blender base and a container that isoperably engaged with the blender base. The blender may include a motorthat operatively engages a blade assembly disposed within the container.The motor may also operatively engage and drive a primary fan. Anauxiliary fan may also be comprised by the blender base. The blenderbase may operate the auxiliary fan at speeds that vary with respect tothe speed of the blade assembly or primary fan.

In another aspect, a blender system may include a blender base and acontainer, a motor that operatively engages a blade assembly disposedwithin the container, and an auxiliary fan. The auxiliary fan may bedriven at speeds that are different from the rotational speed of theblade assembly. The auxiliary fan me be driven at times when the motoris not running.

A method for operating a blender system is described herein. The methodmay include providing a blender base with a motor that operativelydrives a mixing blade, and a container engaged with the blender base.The method may further include operating a fan at a speed that isdifferent from the speed for the motor.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present teachings may be better understood by reference to thefollowing detailed description taken in connection with the followingillustrations, wherein:

FIG. 1A is a blending system including a fan that may push air towards acircuit board and a motor in accordance with various disclosed aspects;

FIG. 1B is a blending system including a fan that may pull air towards acircuit board and a motor in accordance with various disclosed aspects;

FIG. 1C is a blending system including a fan that may pull air towards acircuit board and may push air towards a motor in accordance withvarious disclosed aspects;

FIG. 2 is a prospective, partial and cross-sectional view of a blendingsystem including one or more auxiliary fans in accordance with variousdisclosed aspects;

FIG. 3 is a side, cross-sectional view of the blending system of FIG. 2in accordance with various disclosed aspects;

FIG. 4 is a back, cross-sectional view of the blending system of FIG. 2in accordance with various disclosed aspects;

FIG. 5 is a prospective, partial and cross-sectional view of a blendingsystem including an auxiliary fan and a motor fan in accordance withvarious disclosed aspects;

FIG. 6 is a prospective, partial and cross-sectional view of a blendingsystem including a plurality of auxiliary fans and a motor fan inaccordance with various disclosed aspects; and

FIG. 7 is a method of operating a blender system in accordance withvarious disclosed embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the presentteachings, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilizedand structural and functional changes may be made without departing fromthe respective scope of the present teachings. Moreover, features of thevarious embodiments may be combined or altered without departing fromthe scope of the present teachings, e.g., features of each embodimentdisclosed herein may be combined or replaced with features of the otherembodiments disclosed herein. As such, the following description ispresented by way of illustration only and should not limit in any waythe various alternatives and modifications that may be made to theillustrated embodiments and still be within the spirit and scope of thepresent teachings.

“Logic” refers to any information and/or data that may be applied todirect the operation of a processor. Logic may be formed frominstruction signals stored in a memory (e.g., a non-transitory memory).Software is one example of logic. In another aspect, logic may includehardware, alone or in combination with software. For instance, logic mayinclude digital and/or analog hardware circuits, such as hardwarecircuits comprising logical gates (e.g., AND, OR, XOR, NAND, NOR, andother logical operations). Furthermore, logic may be programmed and/orinclude aspects of various devices and is not limited to a singledevice.

It is noted that the various embodiments described herein may includeother components and/or functionality. It is further noted that whiledescribed embodiments refer to a blender or a blender system, variousother systems may be utilized in view of the described embodiments. Forexample, embodiments may be utilized in food processor systems, mixingsystems, hand-held blender systems, various other food preparationsystems, and the like. As such, references to a blender, blender system,and the like, are understood to include food processor systems, andother mixing systems. Such systems generally include a blender base thatmay include a motor, a blade assembly, and a controller. Further, suchsystems may include a container, a display, a memory or a processor. Ablade assembly, a blending container, and a blender base may removablyor irremovably attach. The blending container may be powered in anyappropriate manner, such as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/213,557, entitled Powered Blending Container, which is herebyincorporated by reference.

Foodstuff may be added to the blending container. Furthermore, whileblending of “ingredients,” “contents” or “foodstuffs” is described byvarious embodiments, it is noted that non-foodstuff may be mixed orblended, such as paints, epoxies, construction material (e.g., mortar,cement, etc.), and the like. Further, the blender systems may includeany household blender and/or any type of commercial blender system,including those with covers that may encapsulate or partiallyencapsulate the blender. Commercial blender systems may include anoverall blender system, such as a modular blender system that mayinclude the blender along with other components, such as a cleaner,foodstuff storage device (including a refrigerator), an ice maker and/ordispenser, a foodstuff dispenser (a liquid or powder flavoringdispenser) or any other combination of such.

As used herein, the phrases “blending process,” “blending program,” andthe like are used interchangeably unless context suggest otherwise orwarrants a particular distinction among such terms. A blending processmay comprise a series or sequence of blender settings and operations tobe carried out by the blending device. In an aspect, a blending processmay comprise at least one motor speed and at least one time interval forthe given motor speed. For example, a blending process may comprise aseries of blender motor speeds to operate the blender blade at the givenspeed, a series of time intervals corresponding to the given motorspeeds, and other blender parameters and timing settings. The blendingprocess may further include a ramp up speed that defines the amount oftime the motor takes to reach its predetermined motor speed. Theblending process may be stored on a memory and recalled by orcommunicated to the blending device.

Moreover, blending of foodstuff or ingredients may result in a blendedproduct. Such blended products may include drinks, frozen drinks,smoothies, shakes, soups, purees, sorbets, butter (nut), dips or thelike. It is noted that various other blended products may result fromblending ingredients. Accordingly, terms such as “blended product” or“drink” may be used interchangeably unless context suggests otherwise orwarrants a particular distinction among such terms. Further, such termsare not intended to limit possible blended products and should be viewedas examples of possible blended products.

It is noted that the term “fan” may refer to fan blades, a motor, arotating shaft, and/or a combination thereof, as context may suggest.For instance, a blender fan may refer to the motor (which may drive afan and a blade assembly), a shaft, and fan blades attached to theshaft. For instance, the phrase “a fan attached to the shaft of amotor,” may utilize the term fan as referring to the fan blades. Inanother aspect, an auxiliary fan may refer to one or more fan blades,motor, and a shaft operatively driving the fan blades. As such, it isnoted that the use of the term “fan” may depend on the context of theuse. It is further noted that while examples may refer to a fan withreference to the blades, embodiments may utilize bladeless fans

Some traditional blender systems include a motor that may run at manyvarying speeds. In these blender systems, the fan blades are attachedintegrally to the motor that controls the mixing or chopping blades. Forinstance, the fan blades may be affixed to a shaft of the motor or to anouter rotor. When the blades are attached directly to the motor, therotational speed of the fan and, similarly, the amount of air drawnthrough the motor are directly related to the speed of the motor. Usersoften adjust the speed of the motor to control the mixing blades. This,however, also adjusts the speed of the fan.

When the motors are at a low speed and high load, this can create adisadvantage for cooling and conversely overheating the motor, forexample. Overheating (e.g., of the motor) can occur in this condition,and may occur in a relatively short amount of time. For instance, a usermay operate a blender at a low speed while mixing a thick or thickeningsmoothie. The thickness of the smoothie may put a high load on themotor, while the fan is operating at a low speed. Systems and methodsdescribed herein may allow for operation of fan blades independent(e.g., at different speeds) of the motor and the mixing blades. Thus,the fan blades may operate at a high speed while the motor and mixingblades operate at a low speed.

In embodiments disclosed herein, a blender may include a thermalshut-off that may turn off a motor and blending mechanism when aninternal temperature exceeds a threshold temperature. This may preventdamage of the motor or other operative components of the blender.Described embodiments may operate fan blades independent of the motor todissipate heat at an increased rate relative blenders that do notoperate fan blades independent of the motor. In another aspect,activation of the thermal shut-off may trigger activation of the fanblades.

In another example, such as in commercial settings, blenders may be usedfor many different sessions, where each session may be under a minute.The time between these sessions may range from seconds to minutes.During the down time, or time between sessions, the fan is not operatingbecause the motor is not operating. This may limit the cooling abilitiesof the blender system. Described embodiments may allow for operation ofthe fans so that they may cool the motor in these down times or offcycles. Such can prevent heat from building up in the blender (e.g., themotor) causing failure, stalling, or the like. Described embodiments maycool various portions of a blender system, such as a motor, housing,electronics (e.g., circuit boards, wiring, microprocessor, memorydevices, communication components such Wi-Fi, NFC, or othercommunication systems) or the like. It is noted that examples maydescribe cooling of a particular part(s) for purposes of illustration.Embodiments, however, may utilize a fan to cool various other parts.

Turning to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, there are exemplary diagrams of anauxiliary fan 102 that operatively forces air through a blender systemto cool a blending system that may include at least one of a circuitboard 106 or a motor 110. The fan 102 may either pull or push air 104through a blender airflow system as described in more detail herein. Inan example, the orientation and positioning of the fan 102 may determinewhether the fan 102 pushes or pulls the air 104 through a blenderairflow system.

As an exemplary embodiment, FIG. 1A illustrates the fan 102 disposedproximal air inlet 112. The air inlet 112 may comprise a vent or openingin a blender base (as described herein). When the fan 102 is rotatingits blades 1, the blades 1 will force or pull cool air from the airinlet 112 and at least one of force the: air across of the circuit board106; onto heat sinks (not shown); around a shell/housing of the motor110; through the motor 110 (e.g., between the rotor and stator internalto the motor 110); or the like.

FIG. 1B illustrates the fan 102 disposed proximal air outlet or exit114. The air exit 114 may comprise an exhaust, vent or opening in ablender base (as described herein). When the fan 102 is rotating itsblades 1, the blades 1 will force or pull warm air from the air inlet112 and at least one of: force the air across of the circuit board 106;force the air onto heat sinks (not shown); force the air around ashell/housing of the motor 110; force the air through the motor 110(e.g., between the rotor and stator internal to the motor 110); or thelike.

It is noted that the fan 102 may be disposed between the circuit board106 and the motor 110, as shown in FIG. 1C. Moreover, while FIG. 1Cshows fan 102 pulling air 104 across the circuit board 106, and pushingthe air 104 around or through the motor 110, it is noted that the fan102 may pull air 104 across, around, or through the motor 110 and pushthe air 104 across the circuit board 106.

In another aspect, the fan 102 may operate independently of the motor110. For instance, the fan 102 may operate at a different speed than themotor 110, including when the motor 110 is at a speed of zero (e.g., themotor is off or not rotating). Moreover, blending systems describedherein may utilize various aspects as disclosed with reference to FIGS.1A-1C.

According to various embodiments, a blending system may comprise otheror different components such as a motor housing, a container, a mixingblade assembly, or the like. In at least one embodiment, the blendersystem may include a plurality of fans. In at least one embodiment, ablending system may not comprise a circuit board 106, may comprise adifferent motor 110, or the like. In another aspect, a blending systemmay or may not comprise a second fan that is driven by the motor 110.The fan 102 may be an auxiliary fan that may run when the motor is on orrunning, when the motor is off or not running, upon a triggering event(e.g., temperature reaches a threshold level), or the like. Forinstance, the fan 102 may not run while the motor and the primary fanare running at high speeds. This may prevent peak amperage drawconditions.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is a blending system 200 comprising anauxiliary fan operable independent of a motor. The blending system 200may include a blender base 202. It is noted that the blender base 202may operatively engage with a container and blade assembly as describedherein.

As illustrated, the blender base 202 may primarily comprise a shell orhousing 250 that may house operative components of the blender base 202.The housing 250 may comprise a monolithically formed component (e.g., asingle, unitary piece) or disparately formed components (e.g., multiplepieces removably or irremovably attached). It is noted that the housing250 may be constructed of various materials, such as plastic, metal,glass, rubber, and the like.

The housing 250 may include at least one air inlet 254 and at least oneair outlet or exhaust 256. It is noted housing 250 may comprise anynumber of air inlets and/or exhausts disposed in any number oflocations. While air inlet 254 is illustrated on a side of housing 250,it is noted that an air inlet may be disposed on a top or bottom of thehousing 250. In another aspect, the air inlet 254 may comprise a vent,and may be disposed to generally prevent intake of foodstuff that mayspill from a container or from user operation of the blender system 200.Moreover, while housing 250 is depicted with two exhausts 256—as shownin FIG. 4—disposed on opposed sides of the blender base 202, it is notedthat housing 250 may include other or different exhausts. For instance,the housing 250 may include at least one exhaust disposed on a top,bottom, corner, or other position of blender base 202.

In embodiments, the blender base 202 may include or be coupled with apedestal 252, which may allow a blender container (not shown) to dock ormate with the blender base 202. A blade coupler, such as splined coupler208, may be driven by a motor 210. Motor 210 may comprise a steppermotor, switched reluctance motor, brushless motor, shunt motor,copper-brush motor, universal motor, induction motor or the like. It isnoted that the motor 210 may be operatively powered by power mains, abattery, or other power source. In another aspect, the motor 210 may ormay not be communicatively coupled to a circuit board 220. For instance,the circuit board 220 may control operation of the motor 210. Thecircuit board 220 may operatively receive input to control operation ofthe motor 210. The input may be input from a user interface (e.g.,buttons, nobs, switches, etc.), a user device (e.g., cell phone, tablet,computer, wearable, etc.), one or more sensors (e.g., heat sensors,proximity sensors, etc.), an interlock system, or the like.

The circuit board 220 may comprise an integrated circuit having amemory, a processor, and other circuitry. A memory device or memory maystore computer executable instructions and the processor may facilitateexecution of the computer executable instructions. The processor mayprocess instructions to control operations of the motor 210. Forexample, the instructions may facilitate execution of a particularblending process, such as a “soup,” “frozen drink,” or other process. Itis further noted that the circuit board 220 may be coupled with a fan230, and the instructions may control operations of the fan 230. Whileembodiments describe circuit board 220 coupled to and controlling themotor 210 and fan 230, it is noted that these components may compriseother or different controllers, circuit boards, memory, and/orprocessors. For instance, fan 230 may comprise a processor 231 thatcontrols operation of the fan 230 independent of operation of the motor210. However, at least for brevity, embodiments are described whereincircuit board 220 controls operations of the motor 210 and fan 230.

It is noted that the fan 230 may be operatively powered by power mains,a battery, or other power source. In at least one embodiment, blendingsystem 200 may include a power source (not shown) that operates the fan230 and a different power source that operates the motor 210. This mayallow the blending system 200 to operate the fan 230 when the powersource of the motor 210 is not connected or otherwise supplied.

In embodiments, fan 230 may be disposed in air flow path 232 to allowair from air intake 254 to be forced across and/or through the circuitboard 220 and motor 210. It is noted that the air flow path 232 maycomprise a fluid passage that may be directed by geometric features ofthe blender base 202. For instance, walls, bevels, corners, or the likemay direct air from the air inlet 254 to the one or more exhausts 256.As illustrated in FIG. 2, the fan 230 may be disposed between—relativeto the air flow path 232—circuit board 220 and motor 210. In thisconfiguration, the fan 230 may pull air from air inlet 254 over thecircuit board 220. The fan 230 may then push the air through or aboutmotor 210. Moreover, while fan 230 is depicted as forcing air through abore 212 of the motor, it is noted that the air may be directed at heatsinks (not shown), about a motor housing 214, or the like.

The air flow path 232 may allow for cool (e.g., relative to the internaltemperature of the air that would otherwise be present in the blenderbase arising from operation of the motor) or ambient air 234 to bepulled into the housing 250 by the fan 230. The ambient air 234 may becooler than air within the housing 250. As the fan 230 forces the airthrough the air flow path 232, it may absorb heat and/or fluidly forcealready heated air (e.g., air near or in the motor 210) towards theexhaust 256. The heated air may then exit the exhaust 256 as shown byexhaust air 236.

According to at least one embodiment, disclosed systems may be wellsuited for various types of motors 210. For instance, embodiments may besuited for brushless motors. It is noted, however, that variousdisclosed embodiments may be applicable to other types of motors.

Turning to FIG. 3, with reference to FIG. 2, there is a partial,cross-sectional view of the blending system 200. As can be seen fromthis view, the ambient air 234 is drawn through the air inlet 254. Theair follows the air path 232 through a lower chamber 240 and into anupper chamber 242. The upper chamber may house the fan 230. The fan 230may force the air into motor housing 246 of motor 210.

As shown in FIG. 4, the air may be forced from motor housing 246 to anexhaust passage 258. The exhaust passage 258 may fluidly connect themotor housing 246 to the exhaust 256. While two exhausts 256 areillustrated, it is noted that the blender system 200 may comprise adifferent number of exhausts (e.g., 1, 3, 4, etc.). Moreover, theexhausts 256 may comprise vented apertures.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is a blender base 302 of a blender system300. It is noted that like-named components of FIG. 5 and those of theother figures may comprise similar aspects or functionality, unlesscontext suggests otherwise or warrants a particular distinction amongthe terms. For instance, housing 350 may comprise similar aspects ashousing 250. Likewise, motor 310 may comprise similar aspects as motor210.

Blender base 302 may include an auxiliary fan 330 and a motor fan 312.In an example, the motor fan 312 may be driven by the motor 310, and theauxiliary fan 330 may be driven by a different motor. For instance,auxiliary fan 330 may comprise its own dedicated motor. In anotheraspect, auxiliary fan 330 may be coupled to and controlled by circuitboard 320. The circuit board 320 may control various operations of theblender system 300 as described with reference to the various otherfigures. The operations may include control of motor 310 operations(which may operatively drive a blade assembly (not shown) and motor fan312) and may control of auxiliary fan 330.

One or more of motor fan 312 or auxiliary fan(s) 330 may force ambientair 334 through air intake 354, over circuit board 320, and through orabout motor 310 (e.g., as shown by air flow path 332). In anotheraspect, warmed air 338 may be forced to exit the exhaust 356 as exhaustair 336. It is noted that the warmed air 338 may be warmed by orotherwise absorb heat. The heat may be generated by the motor 310 orother operative components of the blender base 302.

In an example, a user may attach a container (not shown) to the blenderbase 302. The user may utilize controls to operate the blender base 302and cause the motor 310 to rotate a blade assembly. In certaininstances, the motor 310 may produce more heat than motor fan 312 coulddissipate. For instance, if the user is blending a particularly thickdrink or soup at low speeds, the motor fan 312 will also be operating atlow speeds. The viscosity of the drink may also cause the motor 310 tobe under strain, resulting in increased heat production. Auxiliary fan330 may operate at speeds that vary with respect to the speed of motor310. As such, the auxiliary fan 330 may operate at a higher speed thanthe motor fan 312. This may increase the air flow through the blenderbase 302. The increased air flow may dissipate heat, may prevent themotor from overheating, and/or may prevent tripping of a thermal coupler(not shown).

As another example, a commercial smoothie shop may need to produce manysmoothies in succession. This may result in blending at intervals, andshutting the motor off in between blending processes. This type ofblending may result in a buildup of heat in the blender base 302. Theauxiliary fan 330 may alleviate this heat by operating when motor 310 isturned off or otherwise not operating.

In some systems, a motor may operate a low speed and a high load whenblending (e.g., such as when blending a thick product) relative otherblending operations (e.g., such as when blending thinner products). Intraditional blending systems, this may result in build up of heat asthese traditional systems use the motor to operate both the fans and themixing blades. In one or more described embodiments, the fan 330 may bedriven by a separate motor and may not be driven by the motor 310 thatoperates the mixing blades and/or another fan. This may allow theblending system 300 to operate the fan 330 when it is needed, regardlessof whether the motor 310 is operating or the speed at which the motor310 is operating.

In another aspect, the motor 310 or mixing blades may seize up orotherwise not rotate during a blending process, such as when food stuffprevents the mixing blades from rotating. The blending system 300 mayidentify such conditions (e.g., via a sensor) and may determine whetheror how to operate the fan 330. For instance, the blending system 300 maydetermine to increase a speed of fan 330 and/or turn the fan 330 on. Theblending system 300 may determine to reduce the speed of the fan 330and/or turn the fan 330 off when the motor 310 or mixing blades resumemixing or rotating.

Referring now to FIG. 6, there is a blender base 402 of a blender system400. It is noted that like-named components of FIG. 6 and those of theother figures may comprise similar aspects or functionality, unlesscontext suggests otherwise or warrants a particular distinction amongthe terms. For instance, housing 450 may comprise similar aspects ashousing 250/350. Likewise, motor 410 may comprise similar aspects asmotor 210/310.

Blender base 402 may include an auxiliary fan 430 and a motor fan 412.In an example, the motor fan 412 may be driven by the motor 410, and theauxiliary fan 430 may be driven by a different motor. For instance,auxiliary fan 430 may comprise its own dedicated motor. In anotheraspect, auxiliary fan 430 may be coupled to and controlled by circuitboard 420. The circuit board 420 may control various operations of theblender system 400 as described with reference to the various otherfigures. The operations may include control of motor 410 operations(which may operatively drive a blade assembly (not shown) and motor fan412) and control of auxiliary fan 430.

One or more of motor fan 412 or auxiliary fans 430 may force ambient air434 through an air intake (not shown), over circuit board 420, andthrough or about motor 410 (e.g., as shown by air flow path 432). Inanother aspect, warmed air 438 may be forced to exit the exhaust 456 asexhaust air 436. It is noted that the warmed air 438 may be warmed by orotherwise absorb heat. The heat may be generated by the motor 410 orother operative components of the blender base 402.

As shown, blender system 400 may include one or more auxiliary fans 430disposed proximal one or more exhausts 454. The auxiliary fans 430 maypull warm air 438 from the blender base 402 and expel the air as exhaustair 436. It is noted that the one or more auxiliary fans may becontrolled as described with reference to the various disclosed figures.It is further noted that the one or more auxiliary fans 430 may bedisposed at other locations that allow the one or more auxiliary fans430 to operatively force air to exit the one or more exhausts 454.

It is noted that the various disclosed fans (e.g., fan 102, 230, 330,430, etc.) may have a single speed or variable speeds. Such fans may becontrolled based on one or more control processes. For example, anauxiliary fan may be turned on at a desired speed based on one or moreof: a temperature exceeding a threshold; a selected blending process; aduration of motor operation; a timer; manual control; current or powerdemand; or the like

According to at least one embodiment, blender system 400 may include oneor more sensors as disclosed herein. The one or more sensors mayinclude, for example, a thermal or heat sensor that may detect ormeasure heat in the blender system 400. The sensors may be coupled to aone or more auxiliary fans 430 and/or a controller that operativelycontrols the one or more auxiliary fans 430. The one or more auxiliaryfans 430 may operatively adjust speeds, turn on/off, or otherwiseoperate based on input from the sensors. In an example, the one or moresensors may be disposed at various locations. For instance, the blendersystem 400 may include a sensor disposed proximal motor 410 or in airflow path 432. The sensor may determine the temperature of the motor 410and/or air in the blender base 402. A controller may receive input fromthe sensor and may determine whether to turn on/off the one or moreauxiliary fans 430. For example, the controller may determine that thetemperature is above a threshold and may control the one or moreauxiliary fans 430 to force the exhaust air 436 out of the exhausts 454.It is noted that controller may determine a speed at with the one ormore auxiliary fans 430 operates, determine whether to turn on/off theone or more auxiliary fans 430, or the like.

As described herein, the one or more auxiliary fans 430 may becontrolled by other devices, such as a user interface (not shown). Forexample, a user interface may include knobs, buttons, touch screens, orthe like that control operation of the motor 410. The user interface mayinclude a control that allows a user to selectively control the one ormore auxiliary fans 430. It is noted that the blender system 400 mayoverride a user selection to control the one or more auxiliary fans 430.In an example, a user may interact with an interface to turn off the oneor more auxiliary fans 430. If heat builds, the blender system 400 mayoperatively turn on the one or more auxiliary fans 430 to reduce orprevent heat buildup.

Disclosed embodiments may allow for more complex control systemscompared to traditional blending systems. For instance, a controller maycontrol parameters of the one or more auxiliary fans 430 according toneed, rather than whenever the motor 410 is operating. In an example, acontroller may select or determine when to turn on/off (or a speed atwhich to operate) the one or more auxiliary fans 430 based on a sensedtemperature, select blending program, food contents within a blendercontainer, user input, or the like.

In an aspect, a processor and memory (e.g., which may be comprised bycircuit board 102, 220, 320, and/or 420) may utilize artificialintelligence, statistical models, or other processes and/or algorithms.In embodiments, the processor may utilize classifiers that map anattribute vector to a confidence that the attribute belongs to a class.For instance, the processor may input attribute vector, x=(x1, x2, x3,x4, xn) mapped to f(x)=confidence(class). Such classification can employa probabilistic and/or statistical-based analysis (e.g., factoring intothe analysis affinities and ingredient attributes) to infer optimal orpreferred times and speeds at which to operate an auxiliary fan. Invarious embodiments, the processor may utilize other directed andundirected model classification approaches that include, e.g., naiveBayes, Bayesian networks, decision trees, neural networks, fuzzy logicmodels, and probabilistic classification models providing differentpatterns of independence. Classification may also include statisticalregression that is utilized to develop models of priority. Furtherstill, classification may also include data derived from another system,such as cameras, optical scanning devices, optical scanners,spectrometer, multi-wave length scanner, electronic noses, or the like.

In accordance with various aspects of the subject specification, anexample embodiment may employ classifiers that are explicitly trained(e.g., via a generic training data) as well as implicitly trained (e.g.,via observing user behavior, blending information, user preferences,historical information, temperature data, current flow, receivingextrinsic information). For example, support vector machines may beconfigured via learning or training phase within a classifierconstructor and feature selection module. Thus, the classifier(s) may beused to automatically learn and perform a number of functions, includingbut not limited to determining whether to, when, and at what speeds tooperate the auxiliary fan, i.e., based solely on a single blender, ormay apply across a set of the blenders. Information from the blendersmay be aggregated and the classifier(s) may be used to automaticallylearn and perform a number of functions based on this aggregatedinformation. The information may be dynamically distributed, such asthrough an automatic update, a notification, or any other method ormeans, to the entire user base, a subset thereof or to an individualblender. It is noted that other devices may receive information and mayprogram the blender to control a fan based on a desired result.

In view of the subject matter described herein, a method that may berelated to various embodiments may be better appreciated with referenceto the flowchart of FIG. 7. While method 700 is shown and described as aseries of blocks, it is noted that associated method or process is notlimited by the order of the blocks. It is further noted that some blocksand corresponding actions may occur in different orders or concurrentlywith other blocks. Moreover, different blocks or actions may be utilizedto implement the methods described hereinafter. Various actions may becompleted by one or more of users, mechanical machines, automatedassembly machines (e.g., including one or more processors or computingdevices), or the likes.

FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary flowchart of non-limiting method 700 formanaging heat in a blender system such as described herein. At 702, ablender base may operate a motor. The motor may operate a motor fan. Itis noted that the blender base may or may not include a motor fan. It isfurther noted that the blender base may operate other components of ablender system.

At 704, the blender base may operate an auxiliary fan at the same or adifferent speed than the motor. For instance, the auxiliary fan mayoperate at a higher speed than the motor and/or than the motor fan. Inanother aspect, the auxiliary fan may operate when the motor is notrunning or is turned off

In embodiments, to operate the auxiliary fan the blender base (e.g., viaa memory, processor, or the like) may determine an operating parameterfor the auxiliary fan based on user input or sensed input. For example,the blender base may determine a speed at which to operate the auxiliaryfan or a time to start/stop the fan based on one or more of atemperature of the motor, a blending program, a speed of the motor, orthe like. In an example, the blender base may determine at least one ofa temperature of a component of the blender base (e.g., via one or moresensors), a speed of the motor (e.g., via one or more sensors), ablending program, or the like. As described herein, the blender base mayoperate the auxiliary fan during particular blending programs, upondetermining heat within the blender base exceeds a threshold, a motorspeed exceeds a threshold (e.g., including a maximum or a minimumthreshold), or the like. It is noted that the thresholds for activatingor otherwise operating the auxiliary fan may be different from thethreshold of a thermal shut-off (e.g., thermal coupler, thermal fuse,etc.). For instance, the threshold temperature for operating theauxiliary fan may be lower than threshold temperature for triggering thethermal shut-off. This may allow the blender base to cool before thethermal shut-off is triggered. In some embodiments, this may prevent ordelay triggering the thermal shut-off.

In another example, the blending system may receive input regarding thecontents within a blending container and may determine operatingparameters for a fan based at least in part on the contents. Theblending system may receive the input from a user (e.g., via aninterface of the blending system or a separate user device), a wirelessidentification tag on a food package, a selected program, opticalsensors (e.g., optical recognition of food stuff), thermal sensors(e.g., which may identify a temperature of foodstuff), ultra-sonicsensors, or the like. According to various embodiments, the blendingsystem may determine whether and how to operate the fan (e.g., when toturn on/off, operate at a selected speed, etc.) based on the contents ofwithin the blending container.

As described herein, the disclosed blending systems may determine toturn off or reduce the speed of an auxiliary fan based on a triggeringevent or a preprogrammed process. For instance, blending systems mayturn a fan on when heat exceeds a threshold, when a motor or mixingblade stops rotating, or as otherwise described herein. The blendingsystem may monitor operating parameters to determine that heat isdissipated below a threshold, the motor or mixing blade begin rotating,power consumption reaches a threshold, or the like. Based on themonitored operating parameters, the blending system may turn off the fanto reduce power consumption, reduce noise, or otherwise increaseefficiency of the blending system.

Referring now to FIGS. 8-10, there are exemplary results from varioustests illustrated through graphs 800, 900, and 1000. Each of the graphs800, 900, and 1000 describes temperature (in ° C.) of various componentsof a blender system—as well as current (in amps ×10)—versus time (inminutes) of a blending process. Furthermore, each test included tencycles, where each cycle included running the motor for 45 minutesfollowed by a one minute off time. It is noted that the specifictemperatures are shown as examples for a particular blending system. Assuch, temperatures of various other blending systems may vary.

Graph 800, shown in FIG. 8, illustrates results from a test thatutilized a blender system with an auxiliary fan. For this test, 2,000milliliters of water were placed in a 64 ounce container and the motorwas run for ten cycles—as described above. The current is shown by line802. The ambient temperature is shown as line 804 and the coiltemperature limit is shown by line 806. This limit describes the maximumtemperature threshold for a coil of a motor of the blender system. Ifthe temperature of a coil exceeds this threshold, the test would belabeled as a failed test. As an example, the threshold was set at theambient temperature plus 85° C.

During the cycles, the temperature of a bridge of the blender system wasrelatively stable as shown by line 808. The temperatures of a powermodule and motor case were clustered together around line 810, with themotor case temperature diverging at line 812. The temperature of threecoils were also clustered around line 820. It can be seen that line 820was around 70° C. below line 806—the coil temperature limit—when at itshighest point.

Graph 900, shown in FIG. 9, describes results from a test that utilizedcarrots and water disposed in a container. The container was coupledwith a blender base having an auxiliary cooling fan as described herein.It is noted that the carrots added increased resistance to blades withinthe container. This resulted in an increased workload for a motor of theblender system, which may increase the temperature output of the motor.

Line 902 illustrates the current of the blender system. Similar to graph800, line 904 illustrates the ambient temperature and line 906 is thecoil temperature limit. The temperatures of the bridge (line 908), powermodule (line 910), and motor case (line 912) were generally lower thanthe temperatures of the motor coils of a motor of the blender system.Three motor coils had temperatures indicated by line 920, line 922, andline 924. Line 924 was the hottest coil that peeked at 96.6° C., whichwas below the coil temperature limit indicated by line 906.

Graph 1000, shown in FIG. 10, illustrates the temperature differencebetween coils of a blender system with an auxiliary fan (line 1002) andcoils of a blender system without an auxiliary fan (line 1006). It isnoted that each of the blender systems included a container with waterand carrots similar to the test described with reference to FIG. 9. Ascan be seen, line 1002 is lower than the line 1006. The reducedtemperature is due, at least in part, to the auxiliary fan. This isbecause the auxiliary fan may increase the airflow through the blendersystem, and increase the air flow to the coils.

What has been described above includes examples of the presentspecification. It is, of course, not possible to describe everyconceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes ofdescribing the present specification, but one of ordinary skill in theart may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of thepresent specification are possible. Each of the components describedabove may be combined or added together in any permutation to defineembodiments disclosed herein. Accordingly, the present specification isintended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variationsthat fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in eitherthe detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to beinclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising”is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

What is claimed is:
 1. A blender system comprising: a blender basecomprising a housing; a motor disposed within the housing, wherein themotor operatively drives a blade assembly; and an auxiliary fanoperatively driven by a second motor.
 2. The blender system of claim 1,wherein the blender base further comprises at least one air inlet and atleast one exhaust.
 3. The blender system of claim 2, wherein theauxiliary fan is disposed proximal the at least one air inlet such thatthe auxiliary fan pushes air through the blender base.
 4. The blendersystem of claim 2, wherein the auxiliary fan is disposed proximal the atleast one exhaust such that the auxiliary fan pulls air through theblender base.
 5. The blender system of claim 1, further comprising asecond fan operatively coupled to the motor.
 6. The blender system ofclaim 1, further comprising a controller that operatively controls theauxiliary fan.
 7. The blender system of claim 6, further wherein thecontroller operatively controls the auxiliary fan at a different speedthan the motor.
 8. The blender system of claim 1, wherein the blenderbase further comprises at least one sensor operatively sensing aparameter of the blender system.
 9. The blender system of claim 8,wherein the at least one sensor comprises a heat sensor.
 10. The blendersystem of claim 1, wherein the motor comprises a brushless motor.
 11. Ablender system comprising: a blender base operatively configured toreceive a blending container; a motor disposed in the blender base andoperatively configured to drive a blade assembly coupled to the blendingcontainer; a first fan disposed in the blender base; and at least onecontroller coupled to at least one of the motor or the first fan,wherein the controller operatively drives the first fan at least one ofa different speed than the motor or at a time when the motor is notoperating.
 12. The blender system of claim 11, wherein the first fancomprises a second motor.
 13. The blender system of claim 12, whereinthe second motor operatively drives the first fan.
 14. The blendersystem of claim 13, further comprising a second fan operatively coupledto the motor, wherein the motor operatively drives the second fan. 15.The blender system of claim 11, wherein the controller operativelydetermines a contents within the blending container and operativelydetermines an operating parameter of the first fan based at least inpart on the contents.
 16. A blending system comprising: a blender basecomprising a housing, a first motor operatively driving a mixing blade,and an auxiliary fan, wherein the auxiliary fan comprises a second motorthat operatively rotates the auxiliary fan at a speed that is differentfrom a speed of the motor.
 17. The method of claim 16, furthercomprising a controller that operatively determines an operatingparameter for the auxiliary fan based on at least one of sensed input oruser input.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the controlleroperatively determiners at least one of a temperature within the blenderbase as the sensed input.
 19. The method of claim 17, wherein thecontroller operatively determiners a speed of the motor as the sensedinput.
 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the controller operativelydeterminers a power usage of the blending systems and operativelydetermines at least one of the speed of the auxiliary fan or a time atwhich to operate the auxiliary fan based on the power usage.